Mother's Spiritual cover

Mother's Spiritual

Laura Nyro · 1984

44 min · 14 tracks · jazz

A soothing blend of jazz-inflected melodies and soulful introspection, capturing the essence of motherhood and personal reflection.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    To a Child… — This opening track sets the tone with its tender lyrics and gentle melody, encapsulating the album's overarching theme of nurturing and love.
  • →
    The Right to Vote — A poignant commentary on social justice, this song reflects Nyro’s activism while blending her signature soulful style with a call to action.
  • →
    Talk to a Green Tree — This track stands out for its evocative imagery and connection to nature, illustrating Nyro's ability to weave environmental themes into personal narratives.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • soothing melodies for introspection
  • thoughtful reflection on motherhood
  • gentle pacing for quiet moments
  • uplifting themes of personal growth
  • for afternoon relaxation

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy engagement
  • prefer standalone hit tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1984, Mother's Spiritual marked Laura Nyro's return after a nearly decade-long hiatus from recording. It came after her previous album, 1971's Gonna Take a Miracle, showcasing a shift towards more personal themes and a mature sound that reflected her life experiences.
Stylistic neighbors
Carole King· Joni Mitchell· Billie Holiday

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • The Right to Vote

    The verses detail a passionate plea for equality and empowerment, directly addressing the listener with urgency and conviction.

    The direct appeal in the lyrics shifts the focus from personal reflection to collective responsibility, making it one of the most politically charged moments on the album.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 To a Child… 3:53
  • 2 The Right to Vote 3:02
  • 3 A Wilderness 2:56
  • 4 Melody in the Sky 3:45
  • 5 Late for Love 2:57
  • 6 A Free Thinker 3:15
  • 7 Man in the Moon 2:55
  • 8 Talk to a Green Tree 3:44
  • 9 Trees of the Ages 3:39
  • 10 The Brighter Song 2:30
  • 11 Roadnotes 3:18
  • 12 Sophia 4:39
  • 13 Mother’s Spiritual 3:12
  • 14 Refrain 1:08

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata